Planning and development budget includes $833,000 CDBG allocation, permitting software request and rental‑registry pilot

The City Council heard a combined presentation on planning, economic development and code enforcement Wednesday that outlined a mix of federal grant awards, permitting modernization and program pilots aimed at supporting housing and redevelopment.

Community Development Block Grant (CDBG): staff said Bangor received notice of an $833,000 CDBG allocation and has revised policies and procedures to improve compliance and spend‑down. Councilors discussed using CDBG funds strategically to leverage low‑interest loans or matching funds for housing production.

Permitting software and staffing: the administration proposed an $85,000 software purchase to enable online permitting, inspections and licensing across planning, code and fire prevention functions. Staff said the current system is an “electronic version of a piece of paper” and that an integrated platform would move permitting online and reduce manual work. The department also suggested restoring a building‑inspector position if permit volumes justify the cost.

Rental registry and housing: the rental‑registry pilot and short‑term rental registry were discussed as ongoing work; staff reported about 220 inspections in support of rental assistance and registration efforts. Councilors asked for more data on revenue trends and how permit fee changes have affected building activity.

Foreign Trade Zone and property management: staff said the city has reactivated the foreign trade zone and will use it as an economic development tool for businesses that distribute internationally. The economic development team is also marketing city‑owned properties and finalizing a design and operating plan for a proposed central kitchen at 50 Cleveland Street.

Staff emphasized the need to codify internal systems, reduce siloing and invest in software and staffing to improve responsiveness to housing and business development needs. Councilors asked for follow‑up on permit revenues, the costs/benefits of the foreign trade zone and potential loan leverage for housing projects.